Baby Pyi Mai

Pyi Mai, whose name means “New Year”, was born in November 2020 and rescued just a few months later alongside her mother, Kham Moon, from a grueling elephant show and riding camp. When found, Kham Moon was tethered by a short chain in a cramped concrete pen, without the space, food, or water needed to properly care for her newborn baby.

Save Elephant Foundation was able to rescue Pyi Mai and Kham Moon on the understanding that we could offer them a better life at our sanctuary. On 21 January 2021, Pyi Mai and her mother travelled a short distance by truck to the park to begin a new chapter in their lives. They were joyfully welcomed by the resident herds, eager to greet the new arrivals.

At our sanctuary, Pyi Mai has flourished under the loving care of her mother and her devoted nanny, Dmax, who share in the maternal duties. About seven months after Pyi Mai came to the park, she found a soulmate in little Chaba, who was rescued along with her mother, Bunma.

From the start, Pyi Mai and Chaba were inseparable best friends enjoying daily adventures together — splashing in mud pits, swimming in the river, and exploring their sanctuary home under the watchful gaze of their mothers and nannies. Pyi Mai’s gentle and nurturing nature shines, especially when she lovingly watches over Chaba as she naps, embracing her role as a protective big sister. Rescued at a tender age, Pyi Mai now lives a joyful life, surrounded by the unconditional love and care of her close-knit herd.